Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average Infant Mortality Rate

    Last updated: January 17, 2026

    27.0

    per 1,000

    The global average infant mortality rate is approximately 27 deaths per 1,000 live births. This has declined dramatically from over 140 in the 1950s. The lowest rates (under 2) are in Finland and Japan, while the highest (over 80) are in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa.

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    Historical Trend

    Source: World Bank

    Global Average Infant Mortality Rate by Country

    Country Value (per 1,000) ↓Source
    Sierra Leone80UNICEF
    Nigeria53UNICEF
    India25.5World Bank
    China5.9World Bank
    United States5.4CDC
    Japan1.8World Bank
    Finland1.6World Bank

    Why This Average Exists

    Infant mortality is one of the most sensitive indicators of a country's overall health system quality, sanitation, nutrition, and socioeconomic development.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Infant Mortality Rate

    • Healthcare access
    • Maternal health
    • Sanitation and clean water
    • Nutrition
    • Vaccination coverage
    • Poverty levels

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading